Drew Timme: Lakers' Two-Way Target

The Gonzaga Legend's NBA Ascent

After dominating college basketball at Gonzaga, Drew Timme is making waves professionally. The 25-year-old big man is reportedly on the verge of signing a two-way contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, a move that could finally elevate him to the NBA level after a journey through the G League.

From College Star to G League Standout

Timme's path to the NBA has been unconventional. Despite a decorated collegiate career at Gonzaga—where he became the school's all-time leading scorer—he went undrafted in 2023. He spent his first two professional seasons primarily in the G League, honing his craft with the Nets' affiliate in Long Island.

After a strong 2024/25 G League campaign (12.1 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 2.2 APG), Timme earned a two-year standard contract with Brooklyn in March 2025. Though the Nets waived him during the preseason after picking up his non-guaranteed option, his Summer League performance (25.3 PPG) proved his potential.

Timme during his dominant Gonzaga collegiate career. - Image from https://duckduckgo.com/?origin=funnel_home_website&t=h_&q=Drew+Timme+Gonzaga+college+basketball+dunk&ia=images&iax=images&iai=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.gettyimages.com%2Fid%2F1474248044%2Fphoto%2Fdrew-timme-of-the-gonzaga-bulldogs-dunks-the-ball-against-the-grand-canyon-antelopes-during.jpg%3Fs%3D612x612%26w%3Dgi%26k%3D20%26c%3DIqp8MrnO7cLlRIehms0ddBs5UtPIdz_NZHt-ebx4ycw%3D

2025: A Breakout Season

This season, Timme has been unstoppable with the South Bay Lakers (Los Angeles' G League affiliate). In the G League Tip-Off Tournament alone, he averaged 28.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game on 48.1% shooting. His dominance earned him NBA G League Player of the Week honors for early November.

Through four games, Timme's numbers are staggering: 28.3 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 4.5 APG, and 1.5 SPG. This production has silenced critics who questioned his transition to the professional level.

Timme in action during his MVP-caliber 2025 G League campaign. - Image from https://sports.yahoo.com/article/drew-timme-wins-nba-g-233826116.html

The Lakers' Two-Way Move

According to reports from Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Lakers plan to sign Timme to a two-way contract, replacing either Christian Koloko or Chris Manon on their current three two-way spots. The move comes as Timme continues his MVP-caliber G League campaign.

For the Lakers, this addresses a need for frontcourt depth. Timme's versatile scoring and playmaking—skills honed under Gonzaga coach Mark Few—align with their system. His ability to operate from the perimeter (40.0% 3P in G League play) and score efficiently in the paint makes him a valuable developmental asset.

What's Next for Timme?

If signed, Timme would become the third Gonzaga alum in the Lakers' organization, joining former teammate Anton Watson. His G League numbers suggest he's NBA-ready, but a two-way contract means he'll split time between the Lakers and South Bay. The move could be a stepping stone to a guaranteed NBA deal, especially if he replicates his scoring prowess at the highest level.

The Lakers' front office, led by Rob Pelinka, now faces a decision: whether to promote Timme permanently or use the two-way contract as a trial period. Either way, Timme's relentless work ethic—from Spokane to Los Angeles—has positioned him on the cusp of his NBA dream.